during the winter:

Tak Talk Blog- Camp Takajo – July 24, 2017

We woke up this morning to unseasonably cool temperatures, grey skies, and rain that continued throughout the day at Takajo. Our senior campers left on schedule for their big trips, so the dining room was a little more roomy and a little less noisy during mealtime.

Our Warrior and Junior campers made the most of their day through the use of our two indoor sports complexes by playing basketball and dodgeball. Our hobbies were busy throughout the day and our Junior thespians took advantage of the opportunity to prepare for Shrek, their big show.

Rain or shine, our boys keep busy. Ironically, a rainy day is a welcome change from the heat we have been experiencing lately. The boys were thrilled to participate in our impromptu rainy day schedule. I started movie nights down at my house this evening and invited all of the Warrior Indians, campers who have finished fourth grade, over to watch Bedtime Stories.

Always a highlight for our campers, movie night provides our little guys with an evening away from their bunks where they can sit on a couch, take in a movie, and enjoy some quality time together. Movie nights at my house are just one of the special events that we incorporate into our program during the last few weeks of camp.

The Warriors will also get to enjoy sleepovers in the MJG Playhouse, make-your-own sundae parties, and another big trip, all before Olympics break. We have a saying in camp that we like too sprint through the finish line. Our goal is to make the most out of every single day and to keep the enthusiasm within camp at a fever pitch.

On a side note, I want to thank those of you who have taken the time to write such heartfelt accounts of your visiting day with your son. The appreciation you have shared for my staff and their work with your children warms my heart. Camp is a microcosm of the real world; and, as in the real world, every moment is not necessarily filled with joy. It is in these moments when we roll up our sleeves and put forth a concerted effort to overcome whatever challenges may arise.

In camp, it is important to develop self-reliance and to make a good faith effort to make the most of each and every passing day. As I walked our Indian campers back to their bunks following movie night tonight, I was overwhelmed by the appreciation and well-mannered nature of the boys. Today reminded me that, no matter the weather or the mood, nothing can dampen our spirits here at Camp Takajo.